Handling Change In The Workspace Is Overwhelming. Here Are 3 Things You Can Do To Make It Easier.
The rate things are changing in the workplace is at an all time high. Whether it be new technology or the attitude of the ever evolving workforce. One thing is for certain, change makes people uncomfortable. The idea of not knowing what is to come or how it will play out drives a sense of insecurity in everyone.
The big question, what can you do to mitigate the chaos that is sure to ensue? Here are
3 things that will make yours and everyone else's life easier when the inevitable happens.
Be Prepared
While this is a very blanket statement, too often people get blindsided by not fully understanding what and how the change affects the people, process, or business. Understanding all of the in's and out's of the adjustment is vital to adapting to the change.
Being able to adapt is a crucial component of leadership. When new ideas, technologies, or processes come into play, it is your obligation as a leader to convey the change effectively. If you do not fully grasp what is happening or what role it plays, you won't be able to address any issues that will arise or be able to create solutions based on those issues.
Digging into the changes that are to come and understanding them down to the most minute detail gives you the ability to prepare yourself for anything thrown your way. System defaults due to x input, you have a solution. Sales process is different than what your team has been doing and they don't understand, you can show them why it will be more effective.
Communication, Communication, Communication
You can't over communicate things that are about to take place in the workspace. The old saying, "don't beat a dead horse" does not apply to change. As mentioned you must understand fully to be able to convey the right message. Conveying that message needs to be clear and concise leaving no room for misinterpretation.
The more you relay the changes, impacts, and company strategies to your team, the easier the transitions will be. On the other hand, lack of communication will bring distrust, no clear understanding of why, and a massive drop in performance once the changes occur.
One thing is for certain, all great leaders communicate with their teams regardless of how positive or negative the situation. If you are looking to maintain stable work relationships, build trust, unity, and a sense of purpose it is vital you do not hold back any information that would impact your team.
Listen To The Feedback
It's during times of change your team will undoubtedly be more vocal or should be. You see, it's when you start mixing things up you will really get to see how great of a communicator you are. If no one is coming to you with concerns or ideas about the new path, there is a greater issue at hand, but for now, let's just say they are.
Your team will have tons to say about the new changes and you should definitely listen. While they might not bring an epiphany leve idea to you, they will give you an idea of where they stand and pose a different perspective. This is important because it shows how vested your team is into being successful and their concern for the direction of the company.
Take what they say to heart. You may not be able to make changes or capitalize on an idea, but it gives you an inside look on how they will operate with the new changes. This will also allow you to see where their concerns are, especially if they continue to struggle with the new adjustments.
Understanding why they are concerned gives you insight as to what they will struggle with. More times than not, if a team member comes to you with a concern it is because they have a struggle understanding or implementing. Either way, this affords you the opportunity to help them build and grow on a weakness.
How you choose to lead your team through these times will determine their overall success.